Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska has received Australia’s most prestigious science honour, securing the $250,000 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for her groundbreaking research into air quality and its role in tackling Covid-19 transmission.
The Queensland University of Technology physicist was recognised at a ceremony on Monday night for work that has reshaped global understanding of airborne pollutants and influenced international public health policy. Her research into the behaviour of airborne particles and ventilation systems was instrumental in efforts to control the spread of Covid-19, particularly in indoor environments.
Born in Poland, Professor Morawska relocated to Australia in 1991 and joined QUT soon after. She founded and now leads the university’s International Laboratory for Air Quality and Health, which has become a global hub for research into air pollution and respiratory health. Over more than 20 years, her work on ultrafine particles has broadened scientific and public awareness of air quality and its impact on human health.
Professor Morawska’s leadership was widely acknowledged during the pandemic, when she coordinated nearly 240 scientists worldwide to draw attention to evidence of airborne Covid-19 transmission. That intervention pushed major international health bodies to revise guidance on infection control and ventilation.
“Each year the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science highlight our country’s exceptional achievements,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“Australia is a powerhouse of science, innovation and research which has a global impact- as is evident by the recognition of the work of Distinguished Professor Lidia Morawska.”
“I congratulate and thank Professor Morawska for her incredible work over many years which influenced how Australia and the world mitigated risks associated with Covid-19.”
The awards also celebrated contributions across innovation, teaching and First Nations knowledge, including the inaugural Prize for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems. The honour went to Professor Michael Wear, a Malgana Traditional Custodian of Shark Bay (Gutharraguda) in Western Australia.
Meanwhile, Mrs Paula Taylor was named winner of the Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary School for her work advancing STEM learning in ACT primary schools. Based at the ACT Education Directorate’s Academy of Future Skills, she has taught more than 10,000 students and supported 480 teachers by delivering practical science education experiences designed to inspire curiosity and long-term engagement.
Commenting on her award, Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres praised Taylor’s impact, saying it is teachers like her who encourage young people to pursue a career in STEM.
